Madison Atchison is organizing a Fun Day for Jake to raise money for his cancer treatments.
Atchison had the idea of raising cash for her friend Jake Schafer, from Durham. He is living with a childhood cancer that is unwilling to leave his bones or body just yet. Schafer is not willing to give up the fight either – and is trying a number of treatments to be free of neuroblastoma.
Atchison, 11, decided she would try to raise money by cutting her ponytail or shaving her head. She has reached those marks, but she knows Jake needs more money than her $1,000 goal.
She presented a speech at the Clifford Rotary Club meeting on Valentine’s Day and club members were so impressed with her, they pledged $1,000 and challenged other Rotary Clubs to sponsor the fund as well.
So far, she has raised $2,338 and is reaching out for more in her next quest – Hope For Jake. Atchison is planning Fun Day for Jake on March 25 from 1 to 5pm at the Harriston recreation complex.
She is seeking only donations and there is no set fee to come to the party.
Her mom, Jennifer Atchison, said people can make a donation and skate until 2:30pm. They can also stay after skating to watch a magic show at 3pm with magician Doug French. Clown lady Val E. Joy will be painting faces and creating balloon animals.
At 4pm, the shave off will begin. So far Madison Atchison and her brother Aidan’s hair will be snipped and shorn.
Madison hopes her school mates and Jake and some his teammates will be there to cheer her on as her hair falls to the ground, and perhaps some of them will decide to be in the hot seat of the barber’s chair as well.
Madison and her mom have been baking peanut butter balls, muffins, cupcakes, tarts, and cookies for the bake table. They are accepting donations of baking, as well as items for a silent auction.
Donations will be accepted right up to the day of the event.
Some children’s games like pin the tail on the donkey, bingo for children, and balloon darts will be part of the day. A 50:50 draw and a $100 board will be games more suited for the adults.
A special feature will be kettle corn from Lantz Meat Market, in Durham. Steve Lantz will be making the fresh kettle cooked pop corn.
To experience fun, play some games, place a bid, make a donation, or watch a sister and brother have their heads shaved, this is event. Bring skates, energy and bring on the fun to help a little girl help her friend.
